China Sanctions Former Philippine Senator Francis Tolentino Over South China Sea Stance

China imposed sanctions on former Philippine senator Francis Tolentino on Tuesday, barring him from entering mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macau for what it described as “egregious conduct” relating to the disputed South China Sea. The Chinese foreign ministry accused Tolentino of making “malicious remarks and moves” that harmed bilateral ties. Tolentino, who recently ended his six-year term after losing his re-election bid, had pushed for laws defining Philippine sea lanes and maritime zones last year, which China opposed, viewing them as a challenge to its territorial claims.